CHILDREN
S’MILES
October 2003
Applause! Applause!
A GR-RRREAT SUMMER
Training &
Fundraising
For the Children!!
COACH’S CORNER
Missed Training
Sometimes our training schedules just plain get away from
us. I was chatting with one of our 1st
time NACoA Marathoners from last year, both bemoaning our inability to keep on
schedule this summer because of other important life events. We chuckled as we realized that “best laid
plans oft go astray.” Then we applauded
our and others’ commitment to The Children, and reminded ourselves
to simply do our best; it all works out in the end. Wisdom from my Walker/Runner Sages: "I don't let it bother me when I miss
training. Sure, time off – days or weeks
– seems a lot. But sometimes I simply
don't have a choice. So, I just pat
myself on the back and assure myself that I'll catch up! And you know what? I do!"
Shoes… Again! And
Socks!
There's always something to say about shoes! If you’re headed for those half and full
marathons, be sure your shoes can “go the distance.” They need to be comfortable for those long
walks/runs
– 13+ miles. A friend was
training really well, and loved her shoes, until, after a 12-miler, she
suffered a jammed toe, another lost toenail and a week off training. She learned that when buying shoes, it's best
to have a full thumbnail distance between big toe and shoe. When you go longer distances you especially
need the toe room for the increased foot stresses.
And socks: Try
those two-layered socks that wick away moisture. They seem to keep me blister-free!
The Heat
Again, I cannot stress enough
to be cautious on hot days.
Recently, I learned that it's essential to drink electrolytes as well
as water, even if you're headed out only for an hour. You have had some training tips on
hydration. Also, visit this website: http://www.runnersworld.com/home/
0,1300,1-78-79-438,00.html.
Read
carefully and take to heart!
HOW GOES THE FUND-RAISING?
What are some of the
methods you're using to raise $$$ for NACoA and your run? Here's something you might try: during
your training walks/runs, distribute flyers to everyone you meet!
I've printed a fun,
friendly, simple flyer about my fundraising efforts. Before each run, I take 20-25 flyers, fold
them, "envelope" them in a plastic bag (to keep them dry!), and put
the "envelope" inside my running shorts. When I see folks walking or running, I pull
out a flyer, greet them warmly and say that I'm "running charity marathons
and would like your support. May I share
my flyer with you?"
It takes a little
longer to get your training in as you stop and chat, or run/walk backwards for
those who stay in motion! But it's well
worth the opportunity to get the word out, find new donors. Chances are excellent that you've delighted
them with your energy and enthusiasm.
And it's a real thrill getting donations from strangers! The chats and positive energy are guaranteed
to inspire you to go a bit further…
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Keep S-Milin’ !!
Christina
313.886.6910